 Derbyshire fans will have to wait to see Harvey back on the field |
The saga over Ian Harvey's application to play as a non-overseas Derbyshire player continued with the England and Wales Cricket Board standing firm. A drink-driving conviction had delayed Harvey's British citizenship.
Derbyshire appealed to the ECB saying Ottis Gibson played for Leicestershire in 2004 while awaiting citizenship.
But the governing body turned down the appeal and said in a statement on Thursday: "While sympathetic, the board has reconfirmed its ruling."
Derbyshire have no room on their overseas quota as their side already includes skipper Simon Katich and another Aussie batsman, Travis Birt.
Chief executive Tom Sears said: "We are disappointed but not surprised by the decision and we will continue to pursue the matter through the Home Office.
"Most of all, we feel a huge amount of sympathy for Ian who is being prevented from continuing his Derbyshire career, which began in such terrific fashion at the start of the season.
"We remain determined to get Ian back to doing what he does best and we will continue to explore every avenue to make that possible."
Harvey has played in England since 1999, is married to a British citizen and has completed the required four years of residency.
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